Ikpeme Praises Super Eagles’ Resilience In Russia Comeback

Dr. Emmanuel Ikpeme, the acting general secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), commended the Super Eagles for their incredible fortitude and tenacity during their 3-3 comeback draw with Russia in Tuesday’s international friendly in Nizhny Novgorod.

Ikpeme, who played for the three-time African champions in Russia, stated that the team’s perseverance—especially after falling behind by two goals—was more important than the outcome.

“This is the Super Eagles we want to see turn up each and every time. The NFF and the Nigeria football family, and I believe all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, are happy with this result.

“More than the result, the character displayed by the team was remarkable and made us proud. Given that we had so many young players, with many of them winning their first caps, the result is heartwarming,” Ikpeme said.

After Russia overturned Kelechi Iheanacho’s early opener and took a 3-1 lead, Nigeria looked certain to lose, but the Super Eagles put on a valiant late comeback to earn a share of the spoils.

After just ten minutes, Iheanacho, who had been out of the national team for a long time, put Nigeria ahead with a well-placed ground goal that surprised the Russian custodian.

Lechi Sadulaev of Russia responded at the half hour mark, and Matvey Kislyak gave the home team the lead in first-half stoppage time.

Nine minutes after the restart, Aleksey Miranchuk increased Russia’s lead, putting the home team on the verge of victory.

Congratulations to the Super Eagles on a spirited comeback against Russia. Their resilience, determination, and fighting spirit made the nation proud.